Why is kayak fishing such a big deal? It is a thrilling, low-cost, simple, and healthy sport where you can set your own pace and also catch great fish. Kayak angling is considered a frontier sport since it is still in the early developmental stages. That means there is not much information available.
At first as a beginner, the wide variation of gear choices and primary learning curve of kayak fishing can seem a bit overwhelming, but once you hop in, you’ll see it is truly one of the most accessible activities out there. Here are ten important kayak fishing guidelines to help you get started.
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Talk with a Kayak Fishing Expert
“Expert” is a proportional term. Many of the serious kayak anglers have been at this sport for four to five years. They generally do not consider themselves specialists, but they are a gold mine to the novice.
Other sources for acquiring knowledge as kayak anglers are the various web sites and forums that are available. There; experts share their knowledge and experience to assist new kayak anglers to get started. Moreover, you can consult with your local paddle shop. They can provide insight into kayak selection and paddling methods.
Select the Right Fishing Kayak
The best fishing kayak is the one you possess. With that being said, in recent years the machinery and design of boats being built precisely for kayak angling have come a long way. Choose a boat that is rigged to fish will provide you with a more pleasing experience and offer limitless potential for your new passion. Here are some features to look for in a fishing kayak that will be useful out on the water:
• Higher seat position for a better field of vision and comfort
• Several rod holders
• Paddle holder
• Enclosed storage, also known as dry hatch
• Deck storage with bungee to keep stuff protected
• GPS/fishfinder mounts
• Folding pedal power propeller
Choosing the Right Paddle
Selecting the proper paddle is as important as choosing your kayak. When selecting paddles, you want an overall length that lets you reach the water easily but not that long as to be awkward and heavy.
The recommended length for a fishing kayak paddle is based on a formula of your height, boat width, and paddling style. Generally, a good paddle length for most people is around 250 centimeters or approximately 8’ 2”.
Right Kayak Fishing Place
Kayaks are very flexible, so there is no limit on places to fish. Your selections will be subject to paddling distance, time frame, and ability. Kayak fishing is an excellent exercise, and age is hardly a barrier to the sport.
Angling smarter will catch more fish than angling harder and paddling distant with your kayak. Appropriate planning can make up for lack of paddling capability or time available. Moreover, you can use a map like Google Earth when planning to kayak fishing on areas that you do not know well. The best practice is to pick a circular route that will give you more fishing opportunities.
Wear a Life Vest/PFD
Kayak fishing is an activity on the water. You should always wear a personal floatation device (PFD), more commonly known as a life vest. Wearing a PFD is crucial for any kayaker – whether you are a novice or an experienced kayaker.
You’ll read this in any kayak fishing beginner’s guideline. PFD lets more movement around the arms and neck, which make them much more comfortable while kayaking. Even if you are a resilient aquanaut, you never know when you might get into trouble in the water.
Generally, Life Vest is provided by local paddle shops, but if you are paddling alone, we recommend buying your personal life vest or leasing from a nearby watersports center.
Dress for water, not for weather
It might be a blistering hot sunny day, so you’ll be interested in dressing up yourself with shorts and tee to go kayak fishing. But the water temperature might be icy cold.
Make sure you wear clothes that are suitable for the water, not the air temperature, or the weather. If you fall in, then you will be happy you wore a wetsuit, kayaking gloves, and water-resistant cagoule rather than summer clothes.
Develop Multiple Species Versatility
Learn the positive and negative effects on the fish in your area. Consider the weather, moon phases, season of the species, and the environment. Keep a log of some type. Use this log to create a plan that will give you a more successful fishing trip. On the other hand, kayak angling is fun even without catching the fish.
Do some study to find out what kind of species that exist in the place where you intend to catch fish. Also, study their reproductive and life cycles. This will help you know their blossoming time and when their population is at their highest number. Try to expand your fishing area limits by not pursuing only one type of fish. The thrill of the chase is fun, even when hunting multiple species!
Length of Fishing Rod & Line
This is another good fishing tip for novice anglers. The length of your kayak fishing rod should be equal to the length of the angling line. This will minimize your work when you catch a fish, or if any weeds get stuck. Remember, a long fishing line makes it dismal to reel the line while the fish is stuck to the hook and can even lead to losing the fish.
Know the Rescue Procedure
Number one rule of kayak fishing is to know how to rescue yourself and others. You might not sink on your first kayak angling trip – especially if the water is quiet and flat – but it’s always good to be prepared. Constantly stay with your boat if you capsize. Make sure you go through a basic capsize drill with your trainer. They will demonstrate to you how to right the boat and get back in again.
Carry Sun Protection
It is wonderful what a cap, water shoes, and some sun cream will do to protect our skin from the sun. A cap is a wonderful first step to defend your face from burning, but be sure to lotion up your face regardless, as the water reflects the UV rays off its surface, revealing your skin even if it appears to be in the shade from the sun. Moreover, when applying sunblock, apply it all over your skins which are exposed, not just spots on your cheek.
Conclusion
Remember, kayak fishing is a lifelong hobby, and personal experience will have the most lessons to teach. The community is also a welcoming one, and many veteran kayak anglers would be glad to share their knowledge. In other words, get out there and fish!
